The ambitions of England for direct qualification to next year’s Women’s World Cup faced a major setback as they were decisively beaten 4-0 by a strong Spain team in Mallorca.
Entering the match with a flawless record in qualifying Group A3, the Lionesses fell behind early as Patri Guijarro found the net for Spain.
Alexia Putellas added two goals, one before and one after half-time, while Claudia Pina rounded off Spain’s commanding performance.
This convincing win elevated Spain to the top of the group, putting them level with England at 12 points after five matches.
For Sarina Wiegman’s side, this heavy defeat means the competition for direct entry into the tournament in Brazil has become even more intense.
England must secure a positive result against Ukraine at the Hill Dickinson Stadium on Tuesday, while Spain will take on Iceland in their final group match.
With the absence of injured captain Leah Williamson, Keira Walsh led the team, contributing an early cross that was easily caught by Cata Coll.
This emphatic victory puts Spain on top of the group, equal with England on 12 points after five matches (Rafa Babot/Getty)
Spain dominated possession early on, with Lucia Corrales sending a dangerous cross to Putellas, whose header went just wide.
After an early save from Hannah Hampton, who managed to stop a shot from Edna Imade, England created their chance when Walsh sent a powerful strike just over the bar.
Spain maintained control, and took the lead in the 19th minute as Guijarro danced into the center and from around 25 yards out, she struck the ball into the net.
Hampton was busy, making several saves, including one from Putellas after the Spanish star had broken free near the edge of the box.
England managed a chance when Lauren James whipped in a cross, but Spain quickly regained control as Vicky Lopez made a strong surge into the area.
Spain doubled their lead in the 37th minute, when Mariona Caldentey played a clever pass to Putellas, who managed to score even though Hampton got a hand to her shot.
After halftime, England had a chance to get back in it, but Georgia Stanway‘s shot went wide, and shortly after, Spain further extended their lead.
Putellas had an initial shot saved by Lucy Bronze, but reacted quickly to tuck in her second goal after the ball bounced off the post.
Spain continued to apply pressure, with Hampton making an incredible save to deny Guijarro’s header, while Lopez sent an effort into the side-netting.
Seeking a response, England had a chance that fell to Bronze following a cross from Alex Greenwood, but her shot was blocked.
Substitute Aitana Bonmati made her presence felt immediately, assisting Pina who found the bottom corner in the 78th minute.
Bonmati nearly added to Spain’s tally late on, prompting another save from Hampton at her near post.